Choosing Better Roofing

When something breaks on your home, you might be tempted to find the cheapest alternative instead of investing massive amounts of money. However, sometimes the more expensive choice is the better one. A few years ago, I realized that we needed a new roof. After doing a little research, I chose inexpensive shingles and nails. After the new products were installed, I could tell that there was a problem. Fortunately, a roofer friend of mine spotted the trouble and helped me to repair my home. This blog is all about helping you to decode roofing materials, so that you can avoid problems down the road.

Four Numbers That Will Inspire You To Strongly Consider A Metal Roof

Posted on:
26 August 2015

If your home is in need of a new roof, you have an important decision to make. Should you stick with the norm and go for another standard asphalt roof, or should you be adventurous and join the metal roof bandwagon? Metal roofs are increasing in popularity, and for good reason. They're long-lasting and great for the environment. If you need a little more convincing, here are four numbers that emphasize how stellar of an option metal roofing really is.

If you plan on staying in your home long-term, this probably means you'll never have to get a new roof again. Comparatively, you can count on having to replace your asphalt roof in about 20 years. There is little maintenance involved in having a metal roof. Aside from possibly having it repainted a few times (depending on the exact metal you choose – some don't even need this), you will rarely, if ever, find yourself having to call your roofing contractor because there's a leak or some other issue with your metal roof.

11 million tons: The amount of shingle waste generated in the U.S. each year.

This is an absolutely astronomical amount of shingle waste. While some of the materials in shingles can be recycled, others end up in landfills, where they leech toxins into the soil and groundwater. By choosing a metal roof, you reduce the number of shingles being disposed of, since you'll be reducing the number of roof replacements you need. When your metal roof is at the end of its life, it can be recycled.

This high percent of recycled materials makes a metal roof an eco-friendly choice. You may be able to find roofs that are comprised of much more than 25% recycled content if you work with a roofing company that makes eco-friendly building a priority. The metal used to make steel roofs often comes from old appliances, roofs, and industrial equipment.

Compare this to a cost of $50 per 100 square feet for standard shingles, and metal looks like a pretty good deal, considering it will last more than twice as long and requires little to no maintenance. Check with a roofing company in your area to get an exact estimate. You'll like be surprised how affordable a metal roof is in the long-run.